How to select the proper solar system for your business? Don't start by looking at the cost or number of panels, but start with how your business uses electricity.

The right system depends upon your energy consumption, operating hours, roof space, electricity tariff, budget and future requirements. As a commercial solar Queensland installer, a good solar system design should be tailored to your property and business usage.

Before you decide on solar, what should you look at?

The first step is to look at your latest bills. Look at your annual usage, daytime consumption, operating hours and peak electricity demand.

The space and shade on your roof, roof condition and access, are also important aspects to consider. These can help determine the size and installation of your system.

Future energy use also is important. Let your installer know before the system is designed if you plan to expand your business, add equipment, or have more hours of operation.

What size Solar System does your business need?

The size of a solar system is measured in kilowatts (kW) and electricity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The two should not be considered the same measurement.

This will depend on your business's actual electricity consumption, roof space available, and solar output and electricity usage during daylight hours.

The larger the system, the not necessarily superior it is. The aim is to get a system in place that is both sensible to your business (and your wallet).

What impact does your roof have on solar installation?

There are a wide range of commercial roof types, and a site visit is a must.

Your installer needs to take into account the size, orientation, pitch, shading and structural needs of your roof, as well as access. Other equipment, such as existing air-conditioning units, vents etc. can also limit panel space available.

Before solar installation, if the roof is in need of extensive repairs or replacement, it's best to take those needs into account.

What Solar Panels and Inverter to purchase?

The factors you'll want to consider when comparing solar panels include efficiency, capacity, warranties, and physical dimensions/space requirements.

The inverter is also a crucial component. Test its capacity, compatibility of the proposed panels, monitoring capabilities, warranty and suitability to the system design.

When purchasing equipment, it's important to understand that not all models are “premium” and Rural Solar can help clarify why certain models of panels and inverters might be recommended for your business or property.

Should Your business require a Solar Battery?

Battery storage is not for all businesses.

If your business consumes high levels of electricity when solar generation is low, outside of the normal daylight hours, or with specific back-up requirements or energy management needs, consider a battery.

Use of electricity for solar systems, capacity and cost of batteries, electricity tariffs should all be taken into account before a decision is made.

How many dollars will it cost to install business solar?

The cost of solar panel systems varies from one business to another.

The final price may vary based on system size, panels, inverter, installation labor, roof access, Panel mounting equipment, cabling, electrical upgrades, switchboard, grid connection, and battery storage.

That's why it is a mistake to compare the ad price only. Make sure you understand each quote and if further work is required, ask about the extra costs.

The elements of a Solar Quote.

A detailed quote should include the following information:

•                 Panel brand, model and number of panels

•                 Total system capacity

•                 Inverter details

•                 Expected generation

•                 Installation and electrical materials and labor

•                 Mounting and cabling

Include requirements for switching on the connection or a grid connection. Add the need for a switchboard or a grid connection.

If present, include battery information. If available, provide battery information.

•                 Product and workmanship warranties

•                 Incentives being applied

Exclusions or extra fees:

Don't sign if you don't understand something, ask for an explanation first.

Which solar quotes are you considering?

Don't just compare quotes with regard to price.

Check whether the systems have similar capacities, equipment, expected generation, warranties and installation scopes. Inquire as well if electrical work, monitoring, grid connection and other charges are covered.

When the price of one quote is significantly lower than the other, ask why, don't assume it is better value.

How to pick a good solar installer?

Check for credentials, commercial installation experience, written quotes and warranty transparency.

A good installer would be able to tell you why the proposed system is right for your business and building. Prior to making a commitment, it is also important to review the latest Australian consumer-protection and accreditation regulations.

If you receive more than one detailed quote, you will be able to understand the differences in system design and cost.

What are some of the pitfall’s businesses need to avoid?

Don't select solar just because it's the cheapest option.

Other common errors include selecting the wrong size system, forgetting to consider daytime energy consumption, not taking into account roof condition, not verifying inverter specifications or taking an energy saving figure on faith without understanding what it is based on.

Your energy consumption and property needs are the key factors when making a solar decision.

Businesses in Queensland should be aware of certain things before investing in solar energy.

Also, Queensland businesses may want to take into account their electricity tariff, network needs, export conditions and any incentives they may be entitled to by the government.

Requirements may be different to the property and the electricity network, so it is advisable to check current information prior to the installation.

Use current Australian and Queensland Government sources, not solar ads that are outdated, for financial or regulatory claims.

How to Select the Best Business Solar System?

Begin with your electric bills, find out which months your business consumes the most electricity, and evaluate the roof space for installation to determine the proper size system.

Then compare panels, inverters, battery options, warranties and complete installation costs. Last, but not least, check out specifics quotes from suitable installers.

Final Thought

Not all the largest and cheapest solar systems are the right ones. It is the system that best matches your energy consumption, property, usage, budget and future business requirements.

Spend the time to learn about the quote, question assumptions and benchmark the full system, not just the headline price. This can assist you to make an informed solar investment in your Queensland business.